In the past couple of years we have visited the gulf coast. Firstly a couple of day trips clearwater, then last year 4 days at st pete's beach. Next year we want to go back again and spend at least a week at the beach

The things I liked were;

The sand at Clearwater (finer sand than St Pete’s).
The hotels on the beach at St Pete’s (we stayed at the holiday inn).
The shops and restaurants at John's Pass Village (Maderia Beach)
Being able to hire deck chairs and sun umbrella’s on the beach.

I would be happy to go back to either place but would like to try further down the coast as well if it has anything else to offer. We loved being able to walk from our room straight out to the beach, spending the morning to mid afternoon playing with the kids/ reading under a sun umbrella. Then mid afternoon going shopping or visiting a local attraction, then eating out early evening (John's Pass Village was great for both).

Is there anywhere else that ticks all the same box’s, and are there any good websites where you can see what the area is like?

I’d especially be interested in places that have suites or sofa beds for the kids

Thanks in advance!